Last night around 7:40pm I was walking home from Giant in Columbia Heights when I was attacked by two teens from behind near Holmead & Otis. One of the kids threw punches at my head and the other kid tried to snag my bag. I had my arms full with my bag, grocery bag, and umbrella but started yelling for help which scared them off and the both ran separate ways (one went east on Otis and the other kid started running south on Holmead). I wasn’t able to fight back and at that point I wasn’t sure if they had any weapons on their person. Fortunately, I didn’t sustain any serious injuries from the blows and I was able to hold onto all of my stuff. I was probably an easy target because I’m a short female and I also had my headphones on. I called the cops and spoke to two detectives. Just wanted all the readers to be aware and be cautious when/if listening to MP3 devices/phones. I definitely learned my lesson.”

I’m very sorry to hear this happened. I know MPD echoes your advice – when in doubt, if walking alone home at night, please remove your earbuds/headphones.

On a side note, you can learn about starting a neighborhood watch program here and 3D (including Northwest Columbia Heights) is offering training March 17th. Details after the jump.